Oldest Ancient Egyptian Genome Decoded

Context

Researchers have successfully sequenced the first complete ancient Egyptian genome from a 4,500–4,800-year-old male buried during Egypt’s Old Kingdom at Nuwayrat, 265 km south of Cairo. This is the oldest and most complete DNA sample from ancient Egypt, offering new insights into early North African ancestry and interregional genetic exchange.

Genomic Milestone

This genome marks the oldest complete human DNA sequence recovered from Egypt.
It belongs to a male aged 44–64 years, with brown eyes, brown hair, and dark to black skin pigmentation, as per phenotypic predictions.

Burial Context & Preservation

The individual was buried in a large ceramic pot inside a rock-cut tomb, facilitating stable temperature conditions favorable for DNA preservation.
Teeth root tips were used to extract DNA — a reliable source due to high preservation potential.

Ancestral Composition & Cultural Linkages

The genome indicates 78% North African ancestry, specifically from Neolithic Moroccan populations.
22% of the DNA links to early Mesopotamian farmers, indicating ancient cultural and genetic exchange possibly via Levantine intermediaries.